How can I remote desktop a graphical Linux machine (say ubuntu) but without vnc because it sucks? I want to be able to copy and paste, and the ability to return to the same session after logging out!
Thanks
There a program called no machine, not sure how valid it is anymore, else there is allways the good old team viewer.
Here's your answer, googlefu.
By forwarding X over SSH.
You could have a look into Remmina
http://www.remmina.org/wp/
I've been using it for while, works nicely.
This seems cool. Do I need to have a DE on the server to do this?
Isn't it just a client? I need a server.
Server? There are two PC's here: the one you're sshing into and the one you're currently using (your main machine), in order to display the windows you need a graphical environment in the main machine.
You can do all of these things from within the command line with SSH and TMUX.
If you must have a gui then install an ubuntu server instance and then install your preferred desktop enviroment. Personally Im a fan of gnome. And then set up OpenSSH and enable X11 Forwarding.
Here is a quick primer: